Re: Kudos to Ogun State NYSC

Sir: The series of events culminating in the expulsion of a corps member from the service by the Ogun State camp director is to say the least an unfortunate one. That the well read Dr Kingsley Ike O. could also lend his weight to this illegal and unconstitutional act is more demeaning.

The Service was founded upon sound principles of humility and service to our fatherland. Service in line with national value and orientation is key here. Ike is supposed to understand the reason for the military approach to training these youths. The military and all paramilitary formations have dress codes which were not to offend either sex’s sensibilities and religion. Take it beyond Nigeria, this same principle applies to all nations.

The corps member in question is saluted for standing tall to defend her faith despite her willingness to serve. She opted for skirt which is permitted in military formations. What is wrong in this? If the founding fathers at the beginning overlook this all-important aspect of our national life, why don’t we correct it? How many times have the hero director denied sending her out of camp in the night even when all evidences point to it!

Service to fatherland at this time is a personal pride as the inherent value in itself has diminished. Let the fading scheme grants exemption to those who are willing to opt out without embarrassing them. Those who can compromise their faiths with those who are less concerned are free to continue with it.

A note to our eminent scholar: the place of religion in man is deeper than what mental knowledge can fill. Religion is of the heart and it shapes and rules the total being, your philosophy is of the head and only tilts the mind. Doc, when others who were permitted have been found to be better ambassadors of the scheme, why are we fraying nerves and losing sleep over this?